My son is involved in a campaign to stop housing development on former allotments in Harpenden, and to have it re-instated as allotments.
Can anyone offer advice, help, support?
If you are on Facebook, would you join his group please?
This is from his Facebook page Save Westfield Allotment Gardens Harpenden
In 1997 consent was granted by the government to sell off former allotment land (the fenced off area at the end of Willoughby Road) to build homes for 'key workers'. An insensitive planning application by Harpenden Town Council in 2005 for 42 flats was refused.
In 2010, the town Council wants to see 20+ social/affordable houses built there. These houses are unlikely to be for local people, but will be allocated to people form St Albans or outside the area as part of a district 'pot' of social / affordable housing.
As a result the Westfield Action Group (WAG) was formed. There has been a high profile local media campaign, four petitions signed by local residents, numerous protest letters to St Albans and Harpenden Councils, and the lobbying of St Albans councillor.
As a result, St Albans Cabinet decided to:
-Revoke agreement to grant right of way over their land
-Ask Harpenden council to restore the site for community garden space
-Agreed to refurbish the two playing areas
However, Harpenden Town Council has 'called in' the decision.
Why?
The council stands to make a sizeable sum of money from selling the land.
They are using 'Social/affordable housing as an excuse to do this. They are ignoring the wishes of the local people.
What happens now?
The decision will go to St Albans Overview and Scrutiny Committee to be discussed.
The meeting will be at St Albans City and District Council on Tuesday 23rd November at 7.00pm.
How can you help?
Join the facebook group and show your support.
Come to the meeting on 23rd November where Carol Hedges will be speaking on our behalf.
If you are in the local Westfield area, use your vote in next May's council election. None of our local councillors has supported or helped us.